The ParityPledge asks that companies commit to interviewing at least one qualified woman candidate for every open position, VP and above, including the C-suite and board. The ParityPledge is an initiative of Parity.org, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on bringing gender equality to the highest levels of business.

“I am thrilled to make this pledge on behalf of RRD to champion the advancement of women in business,” said Sheila Rutt, EVP and chief human resources officer at RRD.

The ParityPledge was inspired by the NFL’s Rooney Rule, a straightforward solution that improved diversity at leadership levels of NFL teams by requiring teams to include more diverse candidates in the interview process. In just three years, the Rooney Rule helped increase representation of African Americans in team leadership positions from 6% to 22%.
“Parity.org was founded to correct the stark reality of gender imbalance at the very top of companies today,” said Cathrin Stickney, Parity.org founder and CEO. “While women represent 51% of the population, barely 20% of S&P500 corporate executive teams and boards are represented by women.”